A Word from the Publishers

Maybe it's that my daughter is graduating from college this spring. Maybe it's the new faces in Washington DC. Maybe it's a few subtle indications of economic recovery or the celebratory mood created by the impending Quadricentennial. Whatever the reason, all around me I see signs of new beginnings. Raised on tales of the Great Depression by both my parents, I find myself surprised mostly by how very unlike the 30s this season of the "great recession" feels. Despair and desperation these days are not strangers, but they haven't become the dominant mood. Realism, a determination to press on, and a typical American idealism seem more typical, while moments of nationalistic exuberance like those described so well by Cynthia Philip in her article comparing today's Quadricentennial with 1909's Tricentennial also seem distant. There are clear historic reasons for the new mood. While the 60s Generation was marked by both a sense of limitless possibilities and violence within American society, the current generation has been branded by the attacks of September 11, 2001 and an ongoing sense of foreign menace. What's most impressive about this generation is their willingness to confront looming uncertainties in the world and at home. I've been amazed to see that many in my daughter's generation are even interested in pursuing careers in my own fields of publishing and journalism, despite the Cassandras in the media predicting its imminent demise. These younger enthusiasts make me certain that one or another form of serious, professional journalism is bound to survive. So let the work of renewal go on with an appropriate sense of reality and limits—and a good dose of optimism.

— Paul

The onset of spring and the beginning of summer bring so many things to do, and so little time. Each year I wholeheartedly believe I will prioritize and get a handle on spring clean-up, weeding, purging my overflowing closets, and still get out on my kayak and hike. Every year I'm surprised anew that I don't achieve these goals. You would think with age I'd become more realistic. Maybe I should learn about prioritizing from my two-year-old grandson. He knows that he wants to be "out"! I open the door and out we go, so I guess my priorities are straight after all. I'll get to the closets in the fall.

Speaking of priorities, I have noticed changes in the thinking of many of the business owners I have working relationships with. Some have taken the tact that advertising is a priority and are making a statement by investing in larger and in some cases more dramatic ads in AboutTown. Others have cut back on their advertising budget. I am very aware of the difficult time some people are having. I am more than willing to work with our customers to come up with a plan that will help them achieve their advertising goals. One creative way we are doing this is by offering a new, very affordable, and highly effective web advertising option. Display ads can now appear on our website next to listing ads. These create a visual impression that enhances the listing content. An image speaks volumes to the viewer about the business. Check out the new web ads at AboutTown.us. Click on the business directory and browse all categories.

— Gail

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Bowman family on the death of Robert M. Bowman on April 24. He was well known in Red Hook for his civic and business involvement and will be greatly missed.

Guest Artist
The dancers and dances in this issue were created by illustrator and painter Melanie Hall, who lives in Olivebridge. She has illustrated over 25 children's books and has received numerous awards including the Parents' Choice Award for an outstanding children's book. Melanie's latest book is Winter Song, an illustrated version of one of the poems concluding Shakespeare's Love's Labour's Lost.